2007 GLENDALE GRAND PRIX

Today was "Bicycle John's Glendale Grand Prix" right in my home town. They closed off a few blocks to create a 1-mile loop course and had races going on all day. Most were 30-45 minutes; the elite racers went for 90 minutes.

With so many races and a short course, you could see the riders every 2 minutes so there was never a dull moment. I spent most of the time hanging out at one of the corners where the bikes came within inches of the curb. It amazes me how strong the wind from the bikers can be.

When I first heard about the race, I wanted to join it. I've done plenty of running races and triathlons but I never did a purely biking event. I assumed that since it was a small, local race (complete with kids divisions) it would be a casual, low-pressure race. Not true.

In every division I watched, there were no stragglers. There was the breakout group up from, then the peloton behind. All of my biking has been focused on building up endurance and I have no experience riding in a pack. Although I probably could have just stayed in the back, it just didn't feel like the time to try something new. I'm glad I didn't sign up.

But now I think I'd like to try some of this style of racing. I'll have to hook up with some of the bike clubs because our Tri-team doesn't ride that way (nor should they; drafting is illegal in most triathlons). I often see large packs riding laps around the Rose Bowl so that will be my first stop. It just looks so damn cool.